Cardiologist named the factors provoking heart attack and stroke

Myocardial infarction and stroke are the leading causes of death among adults worldwide. At the same time, a significant part of strokes is associated with atherosclerotic lesions of cerebral arteries, which provoke atherosclerotic plaques - they form in the vessels and interfere with the normal blood supply to organs. This was told to "Izvestia" on November 24, chief researcher of the Federal State Budget Institution "Academician E.I. Chazov Cardiology Research Center" of the Ministry of Health of Russia, chief cardiologist of the Central Federal District Sergei Provatorov.

Atherosclerotic deposits appear in the vessels due to high levels of bad cholesterol - so called low-density lipoproteins, said the doctor. According to him, up to 80% of cholesterol is produced by the body itself, so it is important to timely undergo studies that will help monitor its level and control the ratio of bad and good cholesterol. To do this, it is enough to undergo an annual medical examination, which includes a biochemical blood test, which also assesses the level of cholesterol in the blood, explained Provatorov.

The results of the study should be discussed with the attending physician, who will be able to assess the totality of risk factors and guide on further treatment. As clarified cardiologist, sometimes it is enough to simply monitor the dynamics of indicators, but if a person has a bad heredity, increased weight or his age is approaching sixty, then it may be necessary to adjust lifestyle and even prescribe medications.

"The hormonal background of women is different, and it can be said to prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases. I am not saying that women are insured, but, as a rule, such serious cardiovascular atherosclerotic diseases, which in men occur at 58-60 years old, in women begin closer to 70 years old," the expert said.

However, he added that there is absolutely no guarantee, because there are men who are perfectly healthy in terms of blood vessels at the age of 90, and women who get sick from the age of 40.

Smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages is another risk factor for coronary heart disease and its complications. Smoking increases the rate of progression of atherosclerotic plaques several times, and alcohol weakens the heart muscle, explained Provatorov.

Being overweight also contributes to the development of coronary heart disease. In order to keep your heart healthy for as long as possible, you need to make healthy dietary choices, the doctor said. A diet high in fat, salt and sugar has a devastating effect on blood vessels, increases the strain on the heart and leads to obesity. In addition, it is important for parents to monitor the nutrition of children in adolescence, because the early development of obesity dramatically accelerates the development of cardiovascular disease, emphasized the expert.

Lack of physical activity also adversely affects human health and in combination can lead to a heart attack or stroke. The cardiologist recommended engaging in moderate physical activity on a daily basis: this has a positive effect on the heart muscle, and also reduces stress levels in the body, which is another risk factor.

Earlier in October, cardiologist Anna Nebolsina told "Izvestia" about what products are harmful and useful for heart health. According to her, the diet should be rich in various substances such as fatty acids (omega-3), vitamins, antioxidants and minerals. These help lower bad cholesterol, help reduce inflammation and support organ and vascular function.